GEORGE "POPPY" MARJANIAN, age 85, of Portage, passed away Friday, November 26, 2010. George was born on April 5, 1925 in Gary, Indiana to Ervand and Maran Marjanian. He served his country proudly as a photographer in the Navy during WWII stationed at New Caledonia. George retired from Inland Steel in 1993 after many years of service. George was active in local politics and enjoyed campaigning for special democratic candidates. He loved photography and earned degrees from schools in California, New York, and Purdue, West Lafayette. His passion for photography will live on forever through the photos he left for his family. George was devoted to his church, his family, and above all his grandson Shawn. Poppy and Shawn had a relationship like no other. George touched many lives and will be missed dearly.

George is survived by his daughter, Rita (Paul, Sr.) Stevenson of Portage; grandson, Shawn Marjanian of Chicago, IL; Anita (Charles) Urban and Rosaland Howell; step grandchildren and step great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

George was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Ann Marjanian in 1985; son, Michael George Marjanian in 1993; his parents; sisters, Inez Demakis, Margaret Benjamin and Mary Davitian; brother, John Marjanian.

Memorial contributions preferred to the family.

A funeral for George will be Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage, with Pastor Bob Burton, Pastor Vince Nelson, and Pastor Ron Pelton officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery. A visitation for George will be Monday, November 29, 2010 from 3-8 p.m. at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, (219)762-3013 or online at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.